The Colombia Avocado Board says it seeks to expand its market share in the upcoming spring and summer season.
Colombia is the fourth-largest exporter of hass avocados to the U.S. The board said it anticipates the country will export more than 130 million pounds to the U.S., with peak volumes expected at the end of April and May, and running through August.
Since the USDA approved Colombian imports of hass avocados in 2017, the board said it has seen year-over-year growth of certified acres and packinghouses.
The main season runs from September to February. Colombia exported 50 million pounds to the U.S. market this growing season, with consistent rainfall and favorable conditions leading to strong yields and enhanced fruit quality, according to the board.
“As U.S. avocado consumption continues to grow, diversifying supply sources with options like Colombia is essential to meeting consumer demand and ensuring the category’s long-term success,” Manuel Michel, managing director of the Colombia Avocado Board, said in a news release. “Over the last 25 years, avocado consumption has increased from 2.1 pounds per capita to 9.2 pounds per capita, with 76% of households now purchasing avocados.”
Colombia will ship most of its fruit to East Coast ports, the board said, adding that it expected primary fruit size to be in the 60s and the early crop sizing in the 70s. The board said growers will also offer 48s and 84s to meet market demand.
“Colombia’s avocado industry is still developing, but through collaboration and a commitment to best practices, growers are focused on delivering the quality and eating experience that consumers expect,” Michel said.
The Colombia Avocado Board said it offers promotional funds to support U.S. avocado buyers.
“It feels like the start of a new era,” said Brock Becker, Colombia Avocado Board secretary and importer director for Mission Produce. “After years of gradual production growth and industry learning, we are making significant progress in developing confidence with the Colombian origin that benefits both retailers and consumers. Last year was pivotal for us in supporting new in-store experiences to introduce Colombian fruit to the U.S. market.
“Like anything new, there is always room for improvement, but we are confident that Colombia is becoming a reliable year-round supply option for U.S. buyers,” Becker added.
